Fillers, also known as dermal fillers, are becoming increasingly popular in aesthetic medicine for their ability to fill in wrinkles and hollows in the face. They can also be used to increase the volume of the lips and cheekbones. However, there are several different techniques for injecting fillers, each with their own advantages and disadvantages. In this article, we will look at the main filler injection techniques and discuss their pros and cons.
Technique 1: Surface injection
Surface injection is a technique in which the filler is injected just below the skin. This technique is often used to treat superficial wrinkles and fine lines. The advantages of surface injection are that it is quick and easy to perform, and it can provide immediate results. The disadvantages are that the results are often temporary and the skin may appear slightly puffy for a few days after the injection.
Technique 2: Linear injection
Linear injection involves injecting the filler in a line along a wrinkle or crease. This technique is often used to treat deeper wrinkles and to increase lip volume. The advantages of linear injection are that it can provide long-lasting results and the injections can be precise and controlled. The disadvantages are that the injections can be painful and there may be some bruising and swelling post-injection.
Technique 3: Fan injection
Fan injection involves injecting the filler in multiple directions, creating a fan of filler under the skin. This technique is often used to increase cheek volume and fill in hollows in the face. The advantages of fan injection are that it can produce natural-looking results and the volume can be adjusted to the patient's needs. The disadvantages are that the injection can be painful and there may be some bruising and swelling post-injection.
Technique 4: Injection by cannula
Cannula injection is a technique in which a thin, flexible tube is inserted under the skin, and the filler is injected through the tube. This technique is often used to treat sensitive areas, such as the lips and lower eyelids. The advantages of cannula injection are that bruising and swelling are often less than with other injection techniques, and there is a reduced risk of damaging blood vessels. The disadvantages are that the injection may take longer than other techniques, and precise volume adjustment may be more difficult.
Tips for aesthetic medicine professionals and their patients
Ultimately, there is no universal answer to the question of which filler injection technique is best. Each method has its pros and cons, and the technique chosen will depend on the practitioner's personal preference, the location and depth of the injection, the type of filler used, and the patient's expectations.
It is important that aesthetic medicine professionals are well trained and competent in all filler injection techniques to be able to offer their patients the best possible results. Patients should also be well informed about the different options available and their advantages and disadvantages.
The choice of filler injection technique should be made in collaboration between the aesthetic medicine professional and the patient, to ensure that expectations are clear and that the desired results are achieved safely and effectively.
